The D.C. United history reflects one of Major League Soccer’s most successful beginnings. Founded in 1996, the D.C. United team quickly became a powerhouse, winning multiple early titles. Guided by visionary D.C. United owners, the club built a strong legacy rooted in success, passionate fans, and a lasting impact on American soccer.
Established
1996
City
Washington D.C.
League History
1996 – Present / Major League Soccer
Team History
1996 – Present / D.C. United
Nickname
DC United – D.C. United is one of the most successful teams in Major League Soccer (MLS), and they have a long history behind their nickname that dates back to 1995 when the team was founded. The name “United” was chosen to represent unity among all people in Washington D.C. and a sense of pride for those who live there and support the team no matter what happens on or off the field.
D.C. United Origin
The word “united” also reflects an integral part of D.C.'s past: its role during World War II, when President Franklin Roosevelt declared that "the only thing we have to fear is fear itself." This phrase has become synonymous with courage, bravery, and patriotism - qualities embodied by players and fans at every game day experience at RFK Stadium or Audi Field today!
The addition of 'DC' before United pays homage not just to our nation's capital but also to its citizens; DC stands for District Citizens - showing respect towards all who make up this great city regardless if they're native-born or transplants from other parts around the world! It serves as a reminder that everyone can come together under the same banner despite their differences – something true sports fans understand better than anyone else!
Championship
MLS Cups 4
2004, 1999, 1997, 1996
Stadium
2018 – Present / Audi Field
1996 - 2017 / RFK Stadium
Owner
2019 - Present / Jason Levien and Steven Kaplan
2018 / Patrick Soon-Shiong, Jason Levien and Steven Kaplan
2012 - 2018 / William Chang, Erick Thohir and Jason Levien
2006 - 2012 / William Chang (D.C. United Holdings)
2001 - 2006 / Anschutz Entertainment Group
1995 - 2000 / Washington Soccer, LP
- 1996
- 1996
- 1997
- 1999
- 2004
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DC United Team Formation
Prior to the 1994 FIFA World Cup, the United States Soccer Federation fulfilled its promise to FIFA by aiding in the foundation of a new professional league. On June 15, 1994, Major League Soccer selected Washington, D.C. out of twenty-two applicants to host one of the first seven teams, with three more added before the league’s launch. On April 6, ... -
1996 MLS Champs
MLS Cup 1996 was the inaugural edition of the MLS Cup, the championship match of Major League Soccer (MLS), the top-level soccer league of the United States. Hosted at Foxboro Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, on October 20, 1996, it was contested by D.C. United and the Los Angeles Galaxy to decide the champion of the 1996 season. Both finalists finished ... -
1997 MLS Champs
MLS Cup 1997 was the second edition of the MLS Cup, the post-season championship match of Major League Soccer (MLS) in the United States. It was played on October 26, 1997, between defending champion and hosts D.C. United and the Colorado Rapids to determine the champion of the 1997 season. The match was played in front of 57,431 spectators at ... -
1999 MLS Champs
MLS Cup 1999 was the fourth edition of the MLS Cup, the championship match of Major League Soccer (MLS), which decided the champion of the 1999 season. It took place on November 21, 1999, at Foxboro Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, and was contested by D.C. United and the Los Angeles Galaxy in a rematch of the inaugural final played at ... -
2004 MLS Champs
MLS Cup 2004 was the ninth edition of the MLS Cup, the championship match of Major League Soccer (MLS), which took place on November 14, 2004, at The Home Depot Center in Carson, California. It was contested between D.C. United and the Kansas City Wizards to decide the champion of the 2004 season. The two teams had qualified for the ...
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* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
D.C. United History
The D.C. United team stands as one of the most historic and successful clubs in Major League Soccer (MLS). Since its founding in 1996, D.C. United has built a legendary reputation for excellence. Throughout D.C. United history, the club has captured four MLS Cups and five Supporters’ Shields, making it one of the most decorated teams in MLS. The D.C. United owners have consistently invested in strengthening the club’s competitiveness both on and off the pitch, shaping a winning culture that continues to inspire American soccer.
The franchise began its remarkable journey as one of MLS’s ten charter clubs during the league’s inaugural 1996 season. Under the leadership of coach Bruce Arena, D.C. United won the very first MLS Cup, instantly setting the tone for dominance in its early years. The club followed this success with more silverware, including additional MLS Cups in 1997, 1999, and 2004, along with several U.S. Open Cup titles. Legendary players such as Jaime Moreno, Marco Etcheverry, and Ben Olsen became icons in D.C. United history, leaving a lasting legacy that defined the early years of the league.
Beyond domestic triumphs, D.C. United also achieved international recognition. The team captured the CONCACAF Champions’ Cup in 1998 and the Copa Interamericana that same year — two historic victories that elevated the D.C. United team on the global stage. With a passionate fan base and a culture built on success, D.C. United became one of MLS’s most respected and influential clubs.
United Achievements
In the modern era, the D.C. United owners have played a vital role in revitalizing the franchise. The move to Audi Field in 2018 marked a new chapter for D.C. United, combining rich tradition with a forward-looking vision. While recent seasons have presented challenges, the D.C. United team continues to show determination and competitive spirit under new leadership and player development strategies.
Over its long journey, D.C. United history has been defined by championships, legendary players, and unwavering fan loyalty. With the ongoing commitment of the D.C. United owners to strengthen the roster and facilities, the club is poised to reclaim its glory days. Fans remain hopeful that the D.C. United team will soon return to the top of MLS and continue adding more historic moments to its proud legacy.
Sports Fan Products
Retired Number
*Blue is this team’s history